Blended families face unique challenges, including parent alienation and reverse betrayal, where stepdads may feel guilty about spending more time with their stepchildren than their biological children. Vulnerability and humility are key to navigating these situations, allowing stepdads to build trust and relationships with their stepchildren while respecting their biological children's needs. [... more]

Stephanie Diller shares a heartfelt tribute to her late husband, Jonathan Diller, a police officer who was killed in the line of duty. She remembers his kind heart, infectious personality, and dedication to his family and community. Meanwhile, the podcast touches on various topics, including eczema treatment with EBGLIS, the 2026 Semi-Quincentennial Coin and Metal Program, and the importance of promoting love and acceptance over hate. [... more]

Christ has set us free from duty to a code, allowing us to delight in the Creator and live by faith in the Son of God. We are reconciled to God, dead to sin, and alive to God, with Christ living in us. To stand firm in this freedom, we must contemplate and remember our status, draw near and abide in Him, and surrender to Him daily. [... more]

A former prisoner of war recounts his harrowing experiences and how a Billy Graham Crusade led to his conversion to Christianity, ultimately allowing him to forgive his tormentor and find peace. [... more]

Sergeant Stubby, a street dog turned soldier, became one of the most decorated war dogs in American history during World War I. He served with the 102nd Infantry Regiment, using his sharp ears and sense of smell to detect artillery shells and mustard gas attacks, and was awarded the Iron Cross medal for capturing a German spy. After the war, Stubby became the mascot for Georgetown University, where his legacy lives on. [... more]

A retired history teacher, Jay Moore, forms an unexpected friendship with a World War II veteran, Joe Brown, after striking up a conversation in a bookstore. Joe shares his personal stories and meaningful trophies from the war, including a bayonet that he used to fight off a Japanese soldier on Tinian Island. [... more]

The speaker emphasizes the importance of living by grace, not by a moral code, and highlights seven principles of gospel ministry. These principles include understanding gospel ministry as a stewardship from God, recognizing equal standing in His grace, affirming the unity of the gospel, contextualizing the gospel, serving as an instrument in the Redeemer's hands, practicing accountability, and serving others rather than being served. [... more]

A World War II veteran and survivor of the Bataan Death March shares his harrowing story of capture, torture, and liberation, as told by his family members, highlighting his bravery, compassion, and unwavering faith in the face of unimaginable suffering. [... more]

Living by faith means entrusting ourselves to Jesus Christ, walking with him, and becoming like him. The law is not a moral code to follow, but a reflection of God's holy character. We are naturally legalists, but faith is not about keeping a good moral code, it's about trusting in God's faithfulness and goodness. Through faith, we receive credited righteousness, the blessing of Abraham, and the promised Holy Spirit, which is God's continual presence and transforming power. [... more]

Patrick, a former slave, was called by God to become a missionary to the pagan Irish people. He converted thousands and brought peace to a violent and barbaric society through his unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. Today, Saint Patrick's Day has lost its original meaning, and it's time to recover our Christian heritage and celebrate this great evangelist. [... more]

Detective Micah Flick's story is one of heroism, integrity, and excellence. He was a man who gave his life to serve his community, using his body as a shield to protect his fellow officers. His wife and brother-in-law share stories of his love for singing, dancing, and being a devoted family man. [... more]

A man reflects on the possibility of sitting on a bench and chatting with anyone from the past or present, and chooses his parents as the person he would most like to spend an hour with, sharing stories and reconnecting. [... more]

Ethan Page discusses his journey in wrestling, from his early days as a fan to his current role as a professional wrestler. He talks about his favorite wrestlers, including Randy Orton and AJ Styles, and shares stories about his time in TNA and Triple A. Page also opens up about his personal life, including his struggles with weight loss and his passion for collecting toys and video games. The conversation also touches on his favorite superhero, Batman, and his experiences with Marvel movies. [... more]

Francis Gary Powers, a CIA U-2 pilot, was shot down over the Soviet Union in 1960, leading to a heated controversy and a spy exchange with Soviet spy Rudolf Abel. Powers' son, Gary Powers Jr., shares the story of his father's life, including his childhood, his time as a pilot, and his experiences in captivity. The story highlights the complexities of the Cold War and the sacrifices made by those involved in espionage. [... more]

The death of King Uzziah left a void in Israel, raising questions about trust and security. In this moment of crisis, Isaiah met God, who is holy, unchanging, and trustworthy. This encounter highlights the importance of placing hope in the Lord, rather than earthly leaders or heroes. [... more]

On this episode of Our American Stories more than years after his death Jesse James remains one of the most famous and misunderstood figures in American history Was he a Robin Hood style folk hero or a ruthless criminal shaped by war and revenge Historian Roger McGrath traces Jesse James's life from his childhood in Civil War era Missouri through his years as a Confederate guerrilla bank and train robber and national celebrity Set against Bleeding Kansas Reconstruction and the lingering hatreds of the Civil War this story explains how violence propaganda and politics helped turn an outlaw into a [... more]

The story of Charles Jackson French, a 22-year-old mess attendant, who swam through shark-infested waters to save 24 wounded sailors from the USS Gregory, a destroyer sunk by Japanese naval gunfire near Guadalcanal. French's heroic actions were initially overlooked, but through the efforts of Bruce Wigo and others, he was finally recognized with the Navy Cross 75 years after the event. [... more]

Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th President of the United States, had a profound sympathy for Native Americans, particularly his friend and associate Ely Parker, the first Native American appointed to a cabinet-level position. Grant's Indian policy aimed to bring peace and citizenship to Native Americans, but it faced significant opposition from settlers, politicians, and wealthy philanthropists. Despite its failure, Grant's vision of a unified America, where all citizens, regardless of their background, could live together in peace and prosperity, remains a powerful and enduring legacy. [... more]

Dr. Bradley Berzer, a professor at Hillsdale College, shares the remarkable story of Andrew Jackson, the seventh president of the United States, who was known for his honesty, bravery, and dedication to the American people. From his humble beginnings in poverty to his rise as a military leader and president, Jackson's life was marked by controversy and dueling, but also by his strong convictions and commitment to the principles of republicanism. Berzer explores Jackson's views on the military, his role in the Battle of New Orleans, and his legacy as a hero of American history. [... more]

Peter Ortiz, a decorated Marine and member of the OSS, led daring operations behind enemy lines in World War II, including a mission to arm French partisans in the Haute Savoie region of France. Ortiz's bravery and leadership earned him two Navy Crosses and a reputation as a hero of the war. After the war, Ortiz worked as a technical advisor in Hollywood, appearing in several films and television shows, including 'She Wore a Yellow Ribbon' and '13 Rue Madeleine'. Ortiz's story is a testament to his courage and dedication to his country. [... more]

The Christmas story is a powerful reminder of God's love and sacrifice, as Jesus, born in a manger, came to redeem us from sin and offer us a relationship with God. Mary and Joseph, despite facing ridicule and hardship, trusted in God's plan and played a crucial role in Jesus' birth. As we reflect on the true meaning of Christmas, we are reminded that Jesus came to give us life, not just after death, but also during life, and that we can have a personal relationship with Him through faith and forgiveness. [... more]

The glory of Christ is lavished upon the Son of God, with imagery from the Old Testament describing his divine nature. Pastor Rick Gaston teaches through the book of Revelation, highlighting the ultimate hero, Jesus Christ, who is the first and the last, with the keys of Hades and death. He emphasizes the importance of pastors delivering the message of Christ and the consequences of rejecting him. [... more]

The ultimate hero, Christ, is affirmed as the alpha and the omega, the first and the last, in the book of Revelation. His deity is essential to understanding the Trinity and the nature of God. The church is called to be a beautiful light to the world, but often behaves as though it does not have the light, instead relying on philosophies and traditions of men. Christ is the source of light, and the church needs to be dependent on the Holy Spirit and the scriptures to be complete and thoroughly equipped. [... more]

John, a lifelong churchgoer and apostle, is exiled to the island of Patmos for preaching the word of God and Christian living. While there, he receives a revelation from the Holy Spirit, which begins with an affirmation of the deity of Christ. The revelation is a message to the seven churches in Asia, warning them of the importance of holding true to scripture and not being corrupted by the world. [... more]

Brigadier General Henry G. Plitt shares his story of capturing Julius Streicher, Germany's most anti-Semitic writer, and his experiences in Nazi-occupied France and Germany, including the horrors he witnessed in concentration camps. [... more]

Pastor Greg Laurie shares the inspiring story of Joseph from the Bible, highlighting his journey of overcoming adversity, forgiving those who wronged him, and trusting in God's plan. Through Joseph's story, Pastor Greg shows how we can live a life of faith and purpose, even in the face of challenges and hardships. [... more]

Eddie Albert's lesser-known World War II service in the Battle of Tarawa is revealed, where he commanded a Higgins boat and evacuated wounded marines under heavy Japanese fire, earning him the Bronze Star with Valor. [... more]

The Lone Ranger, a beloved American hero, was created by Fran Stryker, a radio scriptwriter who drew inspiration from real-life figures and his own wholesome upbringing. Stryker's life and work are intertwined with George W. Trendle, the owner of WXYZ radio station in Detroit, who offered Stryker a lucrative contract to write exclusively for the station, but at the cost of selling the rights to the Lone Ranger for $10. The story of how the Lone Ranger came to be is a fascinating tale of creativity, perseverance, and the power of storytelling. [... more]

Two stories of American heroes, one a notorious Chicago mob lawyer who sacrificed everything for his family's integrity, and the other a World War II fighter pilot who risked his life to protect his fleet, highlighting the complexities of reputation and the value of sacrifice. [... more]

Winston Churchill's life was marked by numerous brushes with death, yet he continued to show extraordinary courage and leadership. Born in New York City to a British mother, Churchill grew up at the apex of Victorian society, but his relationship with his parents was difficult. He was willing to show emotion, a trait uncommon among his peers, and this allowed him to connect with the British people. Churchill's early warning system against Adolf Hitler and the Nazis was partly due to his philo-Semitism and his experience with fanaticism. He never changed his warning, even when ridiculed in the press and attacked by his own party members, and this self-belief was a key aspect of his career. Churchill's physical and moral courage were evident throughout his life, including his travels during the Second World War, where he traveled 110,000 miles outside the UK, often within the radius of the Luftwaffe. [... more]

George Washington's unwavering commitment to the principles of the Constitution and his selfless leadership during the Revolutionary War have made him a symbol of American values and a true superhero. He inspired a nation to stand up for its freedom and defend its principles, setting a precedent for future generations of military service and heroism. Today, we celebrate the long, unbroken line of civilian military service and heroism that has defended freedom not just here but across the globe. [... more]

Mad Anthony Wayne was a complex figure, remembered for his bravery and military prowess, but also for his personal struggles and controversies. As a young man, he was driven by a desire for glory and recognition, but as he grew older, he became disillusioned with the war and struggled to find his place in a post-revolutionary America. Despite his flaws, Wayne remained devoted to his country and his leader, George Washington, and played a crucial role in the early years of the American West. [... more]

George McGovern, a liberal anti-war Democratic presidential candidate, shares a personal story from his time as a B-24 bomber pilot in World War II, where he reflects on the moral complexities of war and the impact of his actions on civilians. [... more]

Brad Server, aka Curly G, shares his remarkable story of discovering he's the grandson of Curly Howard, one of the most iconic comedians of all time. Growing up, Brad idolized Curly and the Three Stooges, but it wasn't until he met other Stooge family members and started attending conventions that he began to understand his family's rich comedy history. With the help of his business partner, Andy Pagana, Brad started creating video content and eventually landed a live performance tour, bringing the Three Stooges back to life for fans across the country. [... more]

The Bible tells the story of Gideon, a fearful man who was chosen by God to lead the Israelites into battle against the Midianites. Despite his doubts and fears, Gideon learns to trust in God's power and presence, and ultimately leads the Israelites to victory. This story serves as a reminder that God is always with us, and that we should not be afraid to trust in Him, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges. [... more]

Benedict Arnold is America's most infamous turncoat, yet he remains one of the most gifted generals in American history. His complex and mystifying story spans the American Revolution, from his early victories to his ultimate betrayal and treason. Arnold's bravery and strategic genius are undeniable, but his personal demons and questionable decisions ultimately led to his downfall and a legacy forever marred by his treachery. [... more]

Richard Ira Bong was a U.S. Army fighter pilot in the Pacific during World War II, who became America's ace of aces, earning the Medal of Honor and numerous other decorations for his bravery and skill in combat. Born in Wisconsin in 1920, Bong enlisted in the Army Air Corps in 1941 and quickly distinguished himself as a talented pilot, shooting down 40 enemy aircraft and participating in numerous high-profile battles, including the Battle of the Bismarck Sea. Despite being recommended for and receiving the Medal of Honor, Bong continued to fly combat missions, even after being promoted to major and put in charge of gunnery training. He died in a plane crash on August 6, 1945, at the age of 24, just days after the first atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima. [... more]

Master Sergeant Roddy Edmonds, one of seven Americans to be awarded the prestigious honor of being considered Righteous among nations by Israel's official Holocaust Museum, risked his life to save Jewish men from Nazi persecution during World War II. His story is a testament to the power of faith and leadership in the face of overwhelming adversity. [... more]

Captain John Smith's life started the American life in many ways. He was a brave adventurer who fought in battles, escaped certain death multiple times, and eventually became the president of Jamestown. His story is a testament to the spirit of exploration and the pursuit of a better life that defined America's early history. [... more]

The Schumer shutdown is a government shutdown caused by the Democrats' demand for health care for illegals, which is a contentious issue in conservative politics. The shutdown has sparked a debate about the role of government and the importance of Christian conservative values. Meanwhile, the conservative movement is rallying behind figures like Charlie Kirk and Todd Starnes, who are advocating for limited government and traditional values. [... more]